Rules and Regulations of Bahir Dar University Libraries

To ensure effective utilization of library resources and to maintain a conducive academic environment, all users of Bahir Dar University Branch Libraries are required to observe the following rules and regulations.

1. Library Membership and Access

1.1. Library services are provided to registered students, academic staff, researchers, and authorized employees of Bahir Dar University.
1.2. Users must present a valid university ID card to access library services and borrow materials.
1.3. Library cards or IDs are non-transferable and must not be shared with others.
1.4. External users may be allowed access with special permission from the Library Directorate.

2. Use of Library Materials

2.1. Library materials must be used within the library premises unless officially borrowed.
2.2. Reference books, rare materials, theses, dissertations, and reserved items are not allowed for home borrowing, except with special authorization.
2.3. Borrowed materials must be returned on or before the due date.
2.4. Users are responsible for materials borrowed in their name.

3. Borrowing Privileges

3.1. The number of items and loan period shall be determined by the Library Directorate based on user category (undergraduate, postgraduate, staff).
3.2. Borrowing rights may be suspended if materials are overdue or library rules are violated.
3.3. Library materials must be returned before graduation, clearance, or staff resignation.

4. Digital Library and Electronic Resources Use

4.1. Digital library resources, including e-books, e-journals, databases, and institutional repositories, are provided for academic and research purposes only.
4.2. Users must comply with license agreements and copyright laws when using electronic resources.
4.3. Unauthorized downloading, copying, or commercial use of digital resources is strictly prohibited.
4.4. Access to digital resources is primarily available through the University network and authorized platforms.

5. Conduct and Behavior in the Library

5.1. Silence must be maintained at all times to ensure a conducive study environment.
5.2. Mobile phones must be kept on silent mode within library premises.
5.3. Eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing khat are strictly prohibited in the library.
5.4. Users must respect library staff and fellow users.

6. Care and Protection of Library Property

6.1. Users shall not damage, mark, tear, write on, or mutilate library materials.
6.2. Any loss or damage of library property must be reported immediately to library staff.
6.3. Bags and personal belongings may be subject to inspection when entering or leaving the library, in accordance with university security regulations.

7. Penalties and Fines

7.1. Late return of borrowed materials shall result in fines determined by the University Library policy.
7.2. Lost or seriously damaged materials must be replaced with the same or latest edition, or the user must pay the replacement cost as decided by the Library Directorate.
7.3. Serious misconduct may lead to temporary or permanent suspension of library privileges and disciplinary measures according to University rules.

8. Library Clearance

8.1. Library clearance is mandatory for students and staff during graduation, transfer, resignation, or contract completion.
8.2. Clearance shall not be granted until all borrowed materials are returned and outstanding fines are settled.

9. Library Opening Hours

9.1. All Bahir Dar University Branch Libraries provide 24-hour library services (24/7) to support continuous learning and research.
9.2. The libraries remain open seven days a week, including weekends.
9.3. Libraries shall be closed during official University holidays and nationally recognized public holidays in accordance with Ethiopian government regulations.
9.4. Changes to opening hours during special occasions, examinations, renovations, or emergencies shall be announced officially by the Library Directorate.
9.5. Users are required to comply with security and service procedures during night and extended-hour access.

10. Authority and Amendments

10.1. The Library Directorate has the authority to interpret, implement, and enforce these rules and regulations.
10.2. The rules and regulations may be revised or updated in line with University policies and Ethiopian higher education directives.